Beginning a home renovation project can be exciting but comes with its fair share of emotions and stressors. Navigating the dust, noise, and general disruption can turn your daily routine upside down, making it challenging to maintain a sense of normalcy for you and your family.
The good news is that despite feeling like your house is in shambles, keeping it running with some sort of normalcy is doable! Below, we will share tips and advice for managing day-to-day life during big home renovation projects.
1. Mentally and Emotionally Prepare
The first step in living through any home renovation is to understand that it is temporary and that you will need to prepare mentally. Acknowledge that there will be disruptions to your daily routine and that the project may take longer than anticipated. Most home renovations, even for those who have done it before, will have some sort of hiccup or delay that is out of your control. Whether it is labor — or material-based, you should plan for it. Being realistic that the timeline you were given may go over will help you and your family mentally.
It is important to discuss the timeline, the areas of the home that will be affected, and any changes to the living arrangements with your family. This is especially important for young children, who may need extra reassurance and explanations about the temporary changes to their environment. My son came unglued when we were updating the floors in our house and did not understand why he couldn’t play on them as usual.
If you find yourself beginning to be overwhelmed, just remember that everything is temporary and try to visualize the end result. Imagine what it will look like and how peaceful your home will be once your project is complete!
2. Plan for Disruptions to Your Routine
If the renovation involves key areas of your home, like the kitchen or bathroom, consider setting up a temporary living space where you can carry out essential activities. For example:
- Temporary Kitchen: Set up a makeshift kitchen in another room with essential appliances like a microwave, toaster oven, and mini-fridge. Use disposable plates and utensils to minimize dishwashing needs.
- Alternate Bathroom: If your primary bathroom is under construction, ensure another bathroom is fully stocked and ready to handle the increased usage. You may also consider renting a portable bathroom if necessary. We did this when our family home was being renovated, however, make sure you consider the morning and evening temperatures. Depending on where you live this can make a huge difference.
- Relocate Sleeping Areas: If the renovation affects bedrooms, create a comfortable sleeping area in a quieter part of the house, away from the construction zone. Consider converting a living room into a bedroom or a spare office and bring in your linens from your bedroom for some resemblance of normalcy.
Organize and Protect Your Belongings
Before you begin a renovation, it is important to organize your belongings. Pack up items that won’t be needed during the renovation and store them in a safe location, such as a garage or storage unit. Use plastic covers or tarps to protect furniture and other items from dust and debris. Make sure you have medicines or other essential items accessible during the duration of the renovation. No one wants to be stressed about digging out a prescription in the middle of a construction warzone.
3. Minimize Stress and Maximize Comfort
Remember when I said, except for the delays and hiccups? It’s so important to stay flexible and adapt to changes as they arise (because they will).
Before you begin any construction, it will help everyone involved to designate a space in your home that is free from construction. This space can be anywhere in your home and can be a place for the entire family to work, relax or spend time together. Having a clean, clutter-free zone can provide a much-needed respite from the renovation chaos.
Keep the Air Clean
Dust and fumes go hand in hand with construction work. To maintain indoor air quality, use air purifiers with HEPA filters to capture dust particles. Additionally, don’t forget to open windows or keep fans on to ventilate the area.
Plan for Meals
Eating any meal at home during a renovation is a pain in the butt, especially if your kitchen is under construction. Here are some tips to keep mealtime stress-free and organized:
- Meal Prep: Prep and freeze meals in advance that can be easily reheated.
- Takeout & Delivery: Budget for takeout or delivery to give yourself a cooking break.
- Outdoor Cooking: If weather permits, use a grill or outdoor kitchen for cooking meals.
- Simple Meals: Opt for simple, no-cook meals like salads, sandwiches, and ready-to-eat choices.
4. Actively Communicate with Contractors
Keeping open and consistent communication with your contractor is vital to the success of your renovation. Don’t be afraid to ask for regular check-ins, address concerns, and make necessary decisions throughout the project. Ensure you clearly understand the timeline, budget, and any changes to the original plan. Staying in open communication helps you keep yourself and your family on track and realistic about their expectations.
Keep a detailed record of the renovation process, including contracts, receipts, and correspondence with contractors. Take photos of the work as it progresses, which can be useful for reference and resolving any disputes.
5. Plan for the Unexpected & Delays
Have we mentioned that renovations often come with unexpected costs? Whether related to unforeseen issues, design changes, or material upgrades. Set aside a contingency fund—typically 10-20% of your total budget—to cover these extra expenses without financial strain.
Delays are common in renovation projects, often due to factors beyond your control, such as weather, supply chain disruptions, or contractor availability. Prepare yourself for potential delays by building some flexibility into your schedule and being patient as the project progresses.
If the renovation becomes too much or if the construction interferes significantly with your daily life, consider temporarily relocating to a friend’s house, a family member’s home, or a short-term rental. Having an exit strategy in place can provide a necessary break from the chaos and help you recharge before returning to your home.
6. Keep an Eye on the Final Goal
During challenging moments, it can be helpful to visualize the finished space and its benefits to your home. Whether it’s a modernized kitchen, an expanded living area, or a luxurious new bathroom, keeping the final goal in mind will remind you why the temporary inconvenience is worth it.
Plan the Big Reveal
As the renovation nears completion, start planning how you’ll celebrate the finished project. Whether it’s hosting a small gathering, enjoying a quiet evening in your newly renovated space, or simply taking a moment to admire the transformation, having something to look forward to can make the final stretch of the renovation more bearable.
Keep Your Eye on the Prize
Living through any renovation, big or small, can be stressful, to say the least. But thousands of people do it, and if you have the right mindset and preparation, you can manage the challenges and disruptions that come with the process.
With some advanced preparation, organization and open communication with everyone involved, you can minimize stress and keep your household running smoothly. Remember to take care of your well-being, celebrate progress, trust the process and keep your eyes on the prize—a beautifully renovated space that will enhance your home and quality of life for years to come.
You might also be interested in: Creating a Home Improvement Budget: 12 Tips and Tricks
